21 German shepherds found in cages, amongst other animals, in Ohio hoarder home
Animal hoarding is a serious offense. Not only is it unhealthy for any humans involved, but also for the animals. In many places, it is against the law and is considered a form of animal neglect. That is why first responders were at such a loss for words when they responded to a 911 call at an Ohio home.
The animals were living in deplorable conditions
Upon arriving, Emergency Medical Technicians found it all but impossible to enter the home due to the large number of dogs that were blocking the entrance to the home. After gaining entry to the home, medics had to call the local Humane Society for help.
The number of animals present was astounding
All told, the home contained 21 cats, two Guinea pigs, four ferrets, and 24 dogs, two of which were dead. Workers also found six horses on the property, many of them blocked in without any cover. The horses were exposed to the elements and did not have a structure, such as a barn, to take shelter in.
Crews worked throughout the night to remove the animals
The Humane Society worked throughout the night to0 get all of the animals to safety, calling in other organizations to help. All of the animals were found in an emaciated state and living in unsanitary conditions. Some of the animals were found in cages, living in their own feces.
“The magnitude was a lot worse than we thought,” Meaghan Colville, program director with the Humane Society said. “A lot of the animals who had not been outdoors or on a leash, maybe ever.”
Of the dogs found, 21 of them were German shepherds. Volunteers and law enforcement had to carry some of the dogs out of the home as they couldn’t’ walk.
The reason for the horrible conditions is unknown
Colville said that the married couple who lived in the home were unable to properly clean the areas where the animals lived clean, and the mess continued to build up over a few years. Colville had no explanation as to why the couple refused to seek help with their situation.
“I sometimes suspect maybe you could be embarrassed or you don’t want to get in trouble,” she said. “In this situation, I’m not exactly sure why help wasn’t asked for sooner.”
How you can help
The Humane Society and other organizations put out for a call for donations to help offset the cost of the care of the animals. So far, over $6,000 has been raised. The sheriff’s office is currently investigating the case and no criminal charges have been filed at this time.
The animals have undergone medical evaluations and are currently receiving medical treatment. Once they are cleared, they can be adopted out to suitable homes. If you wish to learn more about adopting one of the animals or want to donate to the Clermont Animal CARE Humane Society, visit their Facebook page.
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